Trainer Charlie Appleby has confirmed jockey James Doyle will head to Doncaster with Auxerre instead of travelling across to Dubai.

Doyle was initially scheduled to fly out to the Middle East to ride Dubai Gold Cup hopeful Ispolini at Meydan on Saturday.

But connections have opted to switch up their plans after it became clear Doyle wouldn’t be able to make weight. Ispolini can be backed at 3.00 to win the Dubai Gold Cup and is due to carry 8st 9lb at the showpiece event.

Appleby says Doyle will still be in action over the weekend as he looks to guide favourite Auxerre to glory in the Lincoln Handicap at Doncaster on Saturday. “James couldn’t do the weight on Ispolini in the Dubai Gold Cup at Meydan so Brett Doyle is going to ride that one,” Appleby said.

“James will be riding Auxerre in the Lincoln and he will be replacing Adam Kirby who was originally booked.”

Auxerre, who is priced at 4.50 to win the Lincoln Handicap, heads to the Yorkshire track in fine form after winning on his two appearances this term at Kempton and Chelmsford.

Meanwhile, Appleby has provided an update on Derby hero Masar as he continues to build up towards a return to action.

The Newmarket trainer said: “He is in good shape and is stepping up each week out there (in Dubai).

“He will start cantering at the end of this week. He has done everything right, what we’ve asked of him. He still remains very exciting, going forward.”